How to Get a Plumbing Apprenticeship in Ontario (Step-by-Step Guide)

Dreaming of a stable, hands-on career with strong earning potential? You’re not alone. Many Ontarians are turning to skilled trades like plumbing—but the first hurdle is securing an apprenticeship. If you’ve been searching for how to get a plumbing apprenticeship in Ontario, you’ve come to the right place. This guide cuts through the confusion and gives you a clear, actionable roadmap—from meeting basic requirements to landing that all-important employer sponsor.

What Is a Plumbing Apprenticeship in Ontario?

In Ontario, a plumbing apprenticeship is a paid, work-based training program that combines on-the-job experience with in-school learning. It’s the official pathway to becoming a Certified Journeyman Plumber—a Red Seal trade recognized across Canada.

According to the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD), plumbing apprentices spend:

• Approximately 80% of their time working under a licensed journeyperson
• 20% in classroom instruction (delivered in three 8-week blocks over 4–5 years)

By the end, you’ll have logged over 7,200 hours of practical experience—plus the technical knowledge to pass your certification exam.

💡 Fun fact: The Red Seal Program is part of Canada’s Interprovincial Standards Red Seal Program, allowing certified plumbers to work anywhere in Canada without re-certifying (source: Wikipedia).

Who Is Eligible for a Plumbing Apprenticeship in Ontario?

You don’t need a university degree—but you do need a few key qualifications:

✅ Minimum age: 16 years or older
✅ Education: Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent (Grade 12 English and Math strongly recommended)
✅ Legal status: Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible work permit holder
✅ Physical ability: Capable of lifting 50 lbs, working in tight spaces, and standing for long periods

Note: While not mandatory, completing a pre-apprenticeship program (like those offered at Ontario colleges) can significantly boost your chances. These 6–12 month programs teach foundational skills in pipefitting, safety protocols, and blueprint reading—making you a more attractive candidate to employers.

Step-by-Step: How to Get a Plumbing Apprenticeship in Ontario

Follow these five proven steps to go from beginner to registered apprentice:

Step 1: Research and Prepare

• Understand the trade: Attend a Skilled Trades Ontario (STO) info session or visit a local union hall (e.g., UA Local 46).
• Get your documents ready: Birth certificate, SIN, transcripts, and resume.
• Consider taking Grade 12 Math and English if you haven’t—many employers require them.

Step 2: Gain Relevant Experience (Even Informal)

Employers want to see initiative. Try:

• Volunteering with Habitat for Humanity
• Working as a plumber’s helper or labourer
• Completing a high school co-op placement in construction

According to a 2023 report by BuildForce Canada, 68% of plumbing employers prioritize candidates with prior hands-on experience, even if unpaid.

Step 3: Find an Employer Willing to Sponsor You

This is the most critical step—and often the hardest. Strategies that work:

• Network aggressively: Tell friends, family, and teachers you’re looking.
• Apply directly: Visit plumbing companies’ websites or drop off resumes in person.
• Use job boards: Check SkilledTradesOntario.ca, Indeed, and Job Bank.
• Join a union: UA Local 46 and other unions offer apprenticeship placement support.

💡 Pro tip: Call employers between 9–11 AM—after morning chaos but before lunch. Ask: “Do you currently hire plumbing apprentices or plan to in the next 3 months?”

Step 4: Register Your Apprenticeship with Skilled Trades Ontario (STO)

Once hired:

1. Your employer contacts STO to confirm sponsorship.
2. You both complete the Apprenticeship Training Agreement.
3. STO issues your Apprentice ID Number and training schedule.

⏱️ Timeline: Registration usually takes 2–4 weeks. Don’t start work until it’s official—your hours won’t count otherwise!

Step 5: Complete In-School Training & Work Hours

• You’ll attend three 8-week in-school sessions at an Ontario college (e.g., George Brown, Mohawk, or Fanshawe).
• Log all work hours in your Apprentice Logbook—your employer must sign off monthly.
• After ~4–5 years and 7,200+ hours, you’ll be eligible to write the Certificate of Qualification exam.

Plumbing Apprenticeship: Union vs. Non-Union Path

📊 Data point: Union apprentices in Ontario complete their training 23% faster on average due to guaranteed work hours (Source: Ontario Building Trades, 2024).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

🚫 Waiting for “perfect” qualifications – Employers value attitude over perfect grades.
🚫 Applying only online – In-person visits or calls yield 3x more responses.
🚫 Quitting after 10 rejections – Most successful apprentices contacted 20–50 employers before landing a spot.
🚫 Ignoring safety training – Get your WHMIS and Working at Heights certificates early—they’re often required.

FAQ: Plumbing Apprenticeship in Ontario

Q1: How long does a plumbing apprenticeship take in Ontario?

A: Typically 4 to 5 years, including 7,200+ work hours and three 8-week in-school sessions.

Q2: Do I get paid during my plumbing apprenticeship?

A: Yes! Apprentices earn while they learn—starting at $16–$22/hour, increasing with experience. Union apprentices often start higher.

Q3: Can I start a plumbing apprenticeship without a high school diploma?

A: Technically yes (if 16+), but most employers require Grade 12 English and Math. Consider upgrading through night school or online programs.

Q4: What’s the job outlook for plumbers in Ontario?

A: Excellent. BuildForce Canada forecasts over 4,200 new plumbing jobs in Ontario by 2028 due to retirements and infrastructure growth.

Q5: Is plumbing a Red Seal trade in Ontario?

A: Yes. Once certified, you can work anywhere in Canada under the Red Seal Program—no extra exams needed.

Q6: How much does it cost to become a plumber in Ontario?

A: Apprenticeship tuition is ~$400–$600 per in-school block. Books and tools may cost $1,000–$1,500 total. Many employers reimburse these costs.

Conclusion: Your Future in Plumbing Starts Today

Securing a plumbing apprenticeship in Ontario isn’t just about fixing pipes—it’s about building a recession-proof, high-demand career with room to grow (many plumbers earn $80K–$120K/year once certified). By following the steps above—preparing early, networking relentlessly, and staying persistent—you’ll dramatically increase your odds of success.

🔧 Ready to turn your ambition into action? Share this guide with a friend who’s exploring skilled trades—and tag them on social media!
💬 “The best time to start a plumbing apprenticeship was yesterday. The second-best time? Right now.”

Follow Skilled Trades Ontario on Instagram or LinkedIn for real-time job alerts—and never stop knocking on doors. Your future as a certified plumber is waiting.